Like it or not, money plays a big role in politics. When President Biden endorsed Kamala Harris as the candidate for the Democratic Party, donations came pouring in. A week into her campaign, she’s raised recording break amounts of cash, in the hundreds of millions.
There’s no denying this election is absolutely crucial, democracy is on the line, but whether or not Kamala Harris wins, much of what impacts our day to day lives comes from the state legislatures, and that’s where we can have the most impact.
This is why I am teaming up with one of my favorite publications The Matriarchy Report to host a Giving Circle for The States Project (read their essay about it here).
The States Project is among other Democratic groups that have been raising large amounts for state legislative races — including $4.5 million contributed to Virginia’s legislative race last year alone — through major contributions and smaller networks. The States Project calls these “Giving Circles.”
Why is it important to raise money for state legislative races?
It's often cheaper to change the balance of power in an entire state chamber than it is to win a single competitive congressional seat.
It was the Mississippi law that took down Roe. If that one hadn't done it, there were 16 other states that had queued up abortion bans, right after Kavanaugh was confirmed, explicitly to challenge Roe. Those laws are coming from state legislatures.
Even if Trump loses the election, the results could be challenged by state legislatures. If we’re going to spend money this election cycle, why not put donations where they can have the most impact?
The States Project is focused on 9 states this election cycle. Before we start the Giving Circle, we’re polling our readers to decide what state we should support.
There is a lot on the line this election cycle, supporting state legislative races may not be where the glamour is, but it’s where the power is.